The Sankalp Africa Summit holds a distinguished reputation among social entrepreneurs and potential donors within the ecosystem. For years, I have had the aspiration to attend, yet numerous factors, including scheduling conflicts, disrupted my plans. However, this year marked a significant milestone as I not only managed to attend but also participated in the summit’s inaugural all-female panel discussion.
The panel discussion was nothing short of amazing and profoundly inspirational. It served as a catalyst for future all-female panels, paving the way for inclusivity and diversity within Sankalp’s discourse. Transitioning into the two-day summit, it proved to be an enriching experience for all attendees, irrespective of their roles as funders, entrepreneurs, or networkers. The summit masterfully achieved its dual purpose of knowledge dissemination and networking, both vital components in our 21st-century landscape.
Personally, I was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming response I received after setting up my profile. The influx of bookings from individuals, institutions, and potential funders underscored a genuine curiosity and interest in collaboration. Furthermore, the meticulously curated workshops and sessions throughout the summit were not only relevant but also informative and eye-opening. The topics addressed current affairs impacting and benefiting the ecosystem, fostering a deeper understanding among participants.
It was evident that attendees left the summit with invaluable takeaways, whether in the form of new contacts, inspiration, or motivation. The significant presence of social entrepreneurs, impact leaders, and funders highlighted Sankalp’s success in addressing key challenges such as access, scaling, and knowledge-sharing within the ecosystem. This platform effectively bridged the gap between entrepreneurs and funders, facilitating meaningful connections and opportunities.
Reflecting on my experience, I believe there is a pressing need for more events like the Sankalp Africa Summit throughout the year or extending its duration. Access to opportunity, financing, and practical support remains paramount in fostering the growth of the entrepreneurship ecosystem. The summit exemplifies how such challenges can be addressed, ultimately expanding the reach and impact of social entrepreneurship within the ecosystem.
